UGA experts see no big changes in Cuba for now

Fidel Castro's retirement won't immediately change Cuba or U.S.-Cuba relations, say University of Georgia experts who know the country well.

"At least in the short term, very few people anticipate a dramatic change," said UGA historian Reinaldo Roman.

But as Fidel's brother, Raul, takes over leadership, the Communist regime that has run Cuba for nearly 50 years is not about to collapse - an event older Cuban-Americans have longed for since they fled the country as the Castro's revolution topped the Batista dictatorship that ruled the country.

"It's important, but it's not a moment of deliverance," he said.

Real change in Cuba likely won't come until Fidel Castro dies, he said. Raul Castro may open the Caribbean country's economy somewhat to trade with the outside - maybe even with Georgia's poultry industry - and allow more private enterprise within, Roman said.

Still, Fidel's stepping down means change is on the way, said Howard Wiarda, head of UGA's Department of International Affairs.